Islamic leaders across Waltham Forest opened the doors of their mosques and invited non-Muslims to learn about their religion’s teachings and origins in an effort to break down barriers in the community.

#VisitMyMosque Day, a national initiative facilitated by the Muslim Council of Britain, took place on Sunday February 18 and saw mosques in Leyton, Leytonstone, Walthamstow and Chingford take part.

Members of Waltham Forest Faith Communities Forum including chairman Wendy Smith and the Rev Cllr Paul Braham visited six mosques where they met with worshippers and guests.

Noor ul Islam mosque in Leyton High Road welcomed 200 visitors who were given tours of the new building which includes a women-only floor.

Visitors were also invited to listen to live recitation of the Quran and explore the Discover Islam exhibition.

MP for Walthamstow Stella Creasy, Waltham Forest Mayor Cllr Yemi Osho and representatives from churches and synagogues were among those who turned up.

Mosques which took part included Masjid al Tawhid in Leyton, Leytonstone Islamic Association, Masjid e Usman, Masjid e Abu Bakr Trust and Faizan e Islam in Walthamstow.